Zoroastrian theology, cosmology and cosmogony, history of the faith, its rituals and ceremonies, Avestan and Middle Persian texts, festivals such as Nowruz, Mehregan and Sada, and a host of other topics, hitherto dispersed amidst other entries in their alphabetical sequence in the Encyclopædia Iranica, are gathered together here under one cover. The volume enables the readers to chart their way through complex traditions and debates throughout history, and brings into focus the interdependence of these pioneering contributions. As a thought-provoking and authoritative work of reference, it is a testimony to the fine scholarship and remarkable erudition of its contributors, scholars who have been foremost in ensuring that the Encyclopædia Iranica maintains its high reputation for authoritative comprehensiveness and pioneering research.

List of Contents:

Volume 1

Religious Concepts and Philosophy

Zoroaster and Zoroastrianism

The Elements in Zoroastrianism

The Divine Beings (Yazatas)

Demons, Fiends, and Witches

Zoroastrian Literature

Sacrifices and Offerings

Volume 2

Ablutions and Purification Ceremonies

Prayers, Hymns, and Incantations

Priestly Titles and Prominent Zoroastrian Priests

Legal Aspects of Zoroastrianism

Death and the Afterlife

Festivals

Places of Worship

Zoroastrian Heroes and Adversaries

Mythical and Historical Locations

Parsi Communities

About the Editor:

Mahnaz Moazami is a Visiting Professor at the Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies of Yeshiva University. Her research focuses on religion in pre-Islamic Iran, and she has published several articles on different aspects of Zoroastrianism.